Can Anaerobic Soil Disinfestation (ASD) be a Game Changer in Tropical Agriculture?

Abstract

Anaerobic soil disinfection (ASD) has been identified as an alternative soil-borne pathogen control strategy to chemical fumigation. ASD involves the application of an easily liable carbon source followed by irrigation to field capacity and maintenance of an anaerobic condition for a certain period. A literature search undertaken on ASD found that more than 50 comprehensive research projects have been conducted since its first discovery in 2000. Most of these studies were conducted in the USA and in the Netherlands. Though the exact mechanism of ASD in pathogen control is unknown, promising results have been reported against a wide range of pathogens such as fungi, nematodes, protists, and oomycetes. However, it is interesting to note that, except for a few studies, ASD research in the developing world and in the tropical countries has lagged behind. Nevertheless, with soil quality depletion, reduction in arable lands, and exponential population growth, a drastic change to the current agricultural practices should be adapted since yield gain has reached a plateau for major staple crops. Under such circumstances, we identified the gaps and the potentials of ASD in tropical agricultural systems and proposed promising biodegradable materials.

Biological Control of Phytopathogens: Mechanisms and Applications

“…However, the progress cannot be documented as clearly as in the case of China. An alternative approach to chemical fumigation to control soil-borne pathogens could be anaerobic soil disinfection (ASD), as reported by Priyashantha et al [ 13 ]. This involves the application of easily degradable carbon sources for the stimulation of soil activities followed by irrigation to field capacity and the maintenance of anaerobic conditions for some period.…”

Effects of Anaerobic Soil Disinfestation for Soilborne Disease and Weed Management on Baby Leaf Lettuce Performance in a High Tunnel Organic Production System

“…Previous studies have focused on the influence of soil temperature, soil type, soil depth, treatment duration, and C source on the effectiveness of ASD as a preplant management technique. However, according to previous review articles [9,10], no studies have been conducted in organically managed HT systems. In addition, no studies investigating ASD in HT systems for the organic production of baby leaf lettuce in Florida have been published.…”

Plant–Fungi Interactions: Where It Goes?

“…Accounting all, it is clear that their significance particularly in the agriculture sector, is not only because of their influence on improving farm productivity [ 63 ], but also because of their ability to minimize the application of agrochemicals. This leads to multi-dimensional effects, including the degradation of the environment, health complications, and development of pest-resistance [ 64 , 65 ], therefore direct to sustainable agro farming [ 66 , 67 , 68 ].…”